UPS Podcasts for Small Business

Abstract:

Canadian businesses looking for ways to broaden or streamline their import/export practices can now learn from some industry subject matter experts.

Beginning June 7, 2011, a bi-weekly, three-part podcast series will be launched, covering some of the most pressing issues in today's world of global logistics and supply chain management. The series will provide support to businesses looking to better their current practices.

The podcasts will see experts from Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters and UPS Canada interviewed for up-to-date trends in global logistics and advice on how best to cope with some of the most common challenges.

Following is a list of topics and synopses of the podcasts:

Episode 1

Re-setting Sights: How your small business can explore new markets for growth and profit

Guest:

Jean-Michel Laurin, vice-president of Global Business Policy for Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters

Runtime:

15:44 minutes

Broadcast date:

June 7, 2011

The recession in the U.S. is forcing many Canadian businesses to revisit their export targets toward a more diversified strategy. While the strength of the loonie might make export challenging, there are emerging markets in which Canadian goods are wanted and welcomed.

The UPS Podcast Series for Small Business speaks to Jean-Michel Laurin, vice-president of Global Business Policy for Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, for a discussion of the best markets to explore in 2011 and which to avoid. Listeners will learn not only the who's who of today's international trade but also how best to engage them.

Join Wayne Bosch, vice-president of Customer Solutions for UPS Canada for a discussion on advancements in international supply chain infrastructure that can open up new worlds to Canada's small businesses and allow them to take advantage of global opportunities that will put them on a level playing field with competitors in emerging markets, including China and India.

Episode 3

Contingency Planning: How to prepare your business for the unexpected

Guest:

Jim Ramsay, vice-president of Freight Forwarding for UPS Canada

Runtime:

9:10 minutes

Broadcast date:

July 5, 2011

Japan's recent disaster was an eye-opening moment for many international companies who rely on Japan as a key link in their supply chain. For some businesses, the disaster wreaked havoc on their supply chains and forced their operations to halt until they could develop a contingency plan; for others it was a minor disruption. Why did the effects of the disaster vary so greatly? What did those for whom the disaster was a minor disruption do in advance to prepare for this unexpected event?